Former MLA 'on the dole' after losing Assembly seat

By Iveren McCallion and David Hunter

A former Ulster Unionist MLA has been forced to 'sign on' after losing his seat in the March Assembly elections.

Danny Kennedy has spoken exclusively to Q Radio about his current situation.

The Newry and Armagh veteran politician lost his seat in a divisive election campaign, later described as a battle between 'orange and green'.

Sinn Féin made history during the election, boosting the number of nationalist seats to a majority at Stormont. Cathal Boylan, Megan Fearon and Conor Murphy dominated the constituency, with the SDLP's Justin McNulty returning, and the DUP's William Irwin claiming the unionist votes.

Mr Kennedy had been an MLA since 1998 and had previously held ministerial portfolios including Minister for the Department of Employment and Learning, and more recently the Department for Regional Development.

Speaking to Kevin McAllister on the Q Cafe, the UUP member spoke of his first time signing on:

It's understood the former deputy party leader is struggling to "re-make" himself to fit into the employment market, but he insists he's optimistic. 

The 2017 Assembly election saw a number of high profile candidates lose out on seats.

To listen to the full interview click or tap below: